Helena Johnson // Interview

Music has always been in HELENA JOHNSON’s veins. Her singing has captivated her friends and family for many years and having recently amassed a band to counterweight her bold vibrant voice, she has found herself fuelling parties across Liverpool’s club circuit, playing mammoth events like Fiesta Bombarda and warming up for incredible acts like Riot Jazz at the Kazimier.

Ahead of her stripped down acoustic soul set at the Brink on 18th October, we thought we’d catch up with Helena to see what we can expect…

How long have you been singing?

Ever since I was a child. For as long as I can remember I’ve been performing at family or friends weddings, christenings, family gatherings etc.

What made you start?

I have always loved singing and was taken to singing lessons from the age of 6 which just spurred on my passion.

When you were first developing a vocal style was there a particular artist you aspired towards?

There are a few artists I aspired towards, Beyonc​​e, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Amy Winehouse. I loved the power and soulfulness of their vocals.

You’ve built up a rich sound with your eleven-piece band. How did it all come together?

Well originally it started off as a 6-piece band. But as members changed and the band evolved we seemed to increase in numbers over the past couple of years. The Horn Supremacy are our most recent addition and add a much bigger dynamic to the group.

When it comes to writing material do you have sole control or is it a democratic process in the band?

With song writing, what tends to happen is that I work with another songwriter or an instrumentalist to co-write the song. I then take that song to the band to play around with until we find a sound that fits the song and the band as a whole.​

You’ve been popping up on quite a lot of line-ups of late. Which night have you enjoyed the most so far?

It would probably have to be my most recent gig at the Kazimier supporting Riot Jazz. It was a great crowd, with a lot of new faces and fans. I had so much fun performing at this gig, but also watching The Riot Jazz afterwards, who are a fantastic band!

Now the shows are becoming more frequent do you take any steps to help preserve your voice?

I have always been very conscious of vocal health and before every gig I warm up properly, steam my voice and avoid alcohol for a few days before. This always seems to help keep my voice intact.

Do you have any releases lined-up for the near future?

Yes, I am going to be releasing a single in 2015 which will be available on most mediums.

What can we expect from your acoustic set at The Brink on 18th October?

For my acoustic set at the Brink, you can expect a more soulful, personal performance.

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